Letter to Family Caregivers
Greetings, family caregivers.
I hear you thinking, “Caregiver? Me? I just made a doctor’s appointment; transported them; sat with them while their spouse went out; refilled their medication containers; picked up their groceries; prepared a meal; did their laundry; cleaned their home and took them to pay their bills. I really love what I do and it doesn’t seem like work.”
Yes, caregiver, I’m speaking to you. I see you. A few nights ago, you were exhausted. You had gotten up early and cared for your loved one. They didn’t know who you were. You were frustrated and said, “How can this horrible illness (dementia) rob my loved one of all that they were? Why them? Why me? I didn’t choose this assignment.” You fought back the tears. You finished your day and went to bed but were unable to sleep. You were up the next morning caregiving again. Be comforted, knowing that I’m there with you. I will not leave you alone. I have given my angels charge over you and they will keep you in all your ways (Psalm 91:11).
On Saturday, you scheduled a day away from your loved one. You were going out with a friend to dinner and a movie. Your sibling was relieving you. On Thursday, you treated yourself to a manicure, pedicure and hairdo. Friday was a good day for you and your loved one. You all hugged and said how much you loved one another. You imagined the restaurant, entrée, conversation, things you needed to share, laughs, your favorite drink and the movie. You and your friend were going to have some fun!
You arose early on Saturday and took care of your loved one’s needs. You left notes for your sibling. You were getting ready for your evening out when the phone rang. It was your sibling. You had been in this space before. They were not able to relieve you.
You felt crushed. You telephoned your friend and apologized. Later, the doorbell rang. It was your friend with a big smile on her face, a bag full of food, popcorn, DVDs and your favorite drink. You couldn’t believe it! The two of you and your loved one shared a delicious meal, movies and laughs. As she left, you asked “Why did you do this?” She replied, “Something told me it was the right thing to do. You are my friend.”
My dear caregivers, didn’t I promise to be a friend that sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24)? I love you and will always be with you. Cast all of your concerns upon me (1 Peter 5:7). You just keep doing the works of Him who sent you (John 9:4) and there will be more of these “something told me to do it” moments. You are appreciated during this National Family Caregivers Month.
Love, Jesus Christ
Rev. Jiles Taylor-George, RN, BSN, MSN, is a native of Tallahatchie County and a certified caregiver support group facilitator.
